it is with the carnal mind which is enmity against God, destitute of true inward peace, and in opposition to the true happiness of their fellow-men. On the other hand, those who maintain a vital union with Christ, are new creatures—'they are begotten again'—they are "born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God."[1] Whereas in their unregenerate state, the principle of hostility against the divine government reigned in their bosoms, now, the heavenly principle of love to God is graciously shed abroad in their hearts. And while they evince their love to Him by a sincere and cheerful obedience to his laws, He manifests his love and friendship to them by sending forth his Spirit to seal their pardon, remove their guilt, and witness to their adoption into the heavenly family: so that instead of being as before, tormented with a painful
- ↑ Jn i., 13.
